We all love getting our hands on new gadgets. A shiny new phone, a faster tablet, or a better router—it’s exciting. But what happens to the stuff we no longer use? Most of the time, it gets shoved in a drawer or ends up in a box somewhere, forgotten.
But here’s the thing: that old device still works. It may not be the fastest or flashiest anymore, but it still has some life in it. So instead of letting it collect dust (or worse, throwing it out), here are a few clever ways you can make it useful again.
1. Turn an Old Phone into a Home Camera
You don’t need to spend big on a security system. Just grab an old phone, install a camera app like Alfred or IP Webcam, and set it up in a spot you want to keep an eye on. It works over Wi-Fi and can send video straight to your current phone.
2. Make a Tablet Your Smart Home Control Center
Got smart lights, a thermostat, or a speaker system? Turn an old tablet into your home control screen. Apps like Google Home or SmartThings let you manage everything from one place. Just leave it plugged in somewhere handy.
3. Use That Old Router to Fix Bad Wi-Fi Spots
If your internet cuts out in certain rooms, your old router can help. Many routers have a setting that lets them extend your network. Set it up as a range extender and say goodbye to dead zones.
4. Build a Mini Streaming Box
Old phones and tablets still stream video just fine. Load up Netflix, YouTube, or Plex, and connect the device to your TV with a Chromecast or adapter. You’ve got a simple media center—no need to spend on a new one.
5. Turn It into a Photo Frame
Instead of buying a digital frame, use an old tablet. Set it up with a photo slideshow app or use Google Photos. Leave it on your desk or bookshelf to enjoy your favorite memories all day long.
6. Make It a Kid-Friendly Device
Give your child a device without handing over your current one. Install games, videos, and learning apps, and use tools like Google Family Link to manage what they can access. It’s a win-win.
7. Use It for Navigation in the Car
Old phones still work great as GPS tools. Download offline maps over Wi-Fi and keep it in the glove box. It’s perfect for road trips—or in case your main phone runs out of juice.
8. Create a Music Player for Home Use
Hook up an old phone to a Bluetooth speaker, load your favorite music apps, and you’ve got a dedicated station for your kitchen, bathroom, or garage. It keeps your main phone free for other things.
9. Turn a Router into a Simple Cloud Drive
If your router has a USB port, you can plug in an external hard drive and use it for local file sharing. Some routers even support free tools like OpenWRT to turn them into basic storage hubs.
10. Donate or Recycle It Responsibly
If you truly have no use for it, don’t just throw it away. Schools, shelters, and charities often accept working devices. If it’s beyond repair, take it to a certified recycling center so it’s properly handled.
Final Thought
It’s easy to think something’s worthless once it’s old. But a little creativity goes a long way. Whether it’s helping you at home, keeping a kid entertained, or finding a second life in someone else’s hands, that old tech still has value.
So before you toss it, take another look. You might be surprised at what it can still do.
